Tuesday, May 4, 2010

I just finished watching The Blind Side for the first time. It's one of the best movies I've seen in years. But, the whole time I was watching it, I just kept thinking two things. "I know that woman." and "I know that man."

The woman reminded me of Mrs. Jones, my mentor growing up. She was one of several incredible parents who lead my youth group through my years in high school. The scene that reminded me of Mrs. K (short for her first name Kathy) the most? Well, it's hard to pick just one. She's so much like the main character anyway, giving countless kids, including myself, a loving home through the years. But, I guess, if I had to pick one scene that captured her, it would be the one where the lady is talking to the coach and says something like, "You need to get to know your players, Burt. He scored 98 percent in protective instincts." Mrs. K was always really confident like that. She'd come right out and tell you how she knew you were wrong and you'd wonder what in the world she was talking about... Scored?? Protective instincts?? What?? She wouldn't explain. But, what she said made sense to you anyway and somehow, you could never hate her for being right about how you were wrong.

And, the man, her husband... he reminded me of Dwayne. He believed in his wife, he was inspired by her, he trusted her heart, and then... he just stood back and gave her plenty of room. That's exactly how Dwayne treats me and I am really grateful that he allows me to really own my life and not just borrow, figuratively speaking, a seat at my dinner table. I get to be the heroine in my life's story and I'm aware that, sadly, not every woman gets that privilege. And, if I ever end up doing great things, like this lady did, I won't be surprised. Do you know why? Because just like her husband, my husband loves me with the kind of love that empowers me to do great things. In my not-so-humble opinion, other men should sit up and take notes from these type of husbands.